19 receive skills training in dry wall partitioning

Lusaka (ILO News): The Zambia Green Jobs Program (ZGJP) in conjunction with Saint-Gobain and Thorn Park Construction Training Centre offered training in dry wall partitioning and ceiling installation in Lusaka. The training was from the 10th to the 13th of July, 2017 at the Thorn Park Construction Training Centre.

The ZGJP, together with its local partners and key stakeholders identified an opportunity to strengthen skills in dry wall partitioning and ceiling installation, in order to support job creation in environmentally friendly construction. The training focuses on how eco-friendly materials manufactured by Saint-Gobain should be handled, installed and maintained for customers.Saint-Gobain Tertiary Manager for Zambia, Mr Minestone Simfukwe stated "market value for sustainable construction materials that provide good air quality, improve aesthetic performance, give thermo comfort and has a durable feeling, will improve the way local artisans apply ceiling materials which will result into quality finished products.ZGJP collaborated with Thorn Park Construction Training Centre and Saint-Gobain to enhance sustainable construction practices in Zambia. The training enhanced the skill set of 19 individuals, representing seven construction companies. This will enable construction companies to better understand and utilize sustainable construction technologies which present opportunities for business growth.

In addition, it has created global opportunities for the training institution as it has enhanced Thorn Park Construction Training Centre's branding and further led to potential partnerships globally.

Participants taking part in the practical training

Among the represented construction companies that received training were KAMA Associates, Linter Architects, House and Homes, One Touch Investments and Alutech. Students from Thorn Park Construction Training Centre and Abbeycon sub-contractors also participated in the training. Amongst the participants were four individuals, namely: Febian Mulenga, Chiti Matonmombo, John Bwalya and Chansa Puta, who have been selected to represent Zambia in the upcoming World Skills Competition in Abu Dhabi.